Well i own three 4 string bass guitars and i own 2 five string bass guitars and i own a 6 string bass guitar .. it depends on what music you are playing 😊
Tbh I was just here to Jayme play like a badass on any instrument and I was not disappointed. Clean, feel, groove, great lines, absolute and sound good on every instrument and genre; you’re a constant inspiration and aspiration 🤘
I started learning on a friend’s 5 string as that’s all I had access to. 20 years later and I rarely play 5s now as there’s just no need for the extra string for 98% of what I play and write.
Dude, giving musical examples for everything that you are saying is fantastic!! The music responds to your words and wonderfully illustrates your technical and a very wide variety of music concepts, great job!
I found the transition from 4 to 5 string easier than I expected but it does take time to fully integrate the 5th string I once tried a 6 string (never again) lol 5 is perfect
I've made myself dependent on 5-strings, and I really struggle with jumping back to 4-strings these days. My hands are just so used to the layout of a fiver, even if I don't play the B string all that much
You are an incredible musician. It's so uncommon to find someone that can play these different genres convincingly, and also have an incredible array of techniques absolutely dialed in.
I'm gonna be picking up my first bass in a week or so, I've been playing guitar for 25 years but have been dealing with medical issues since I was born which led to me developing bad bone disease and that makes it incredibly hard to play guitar and form chords anymore. Music has always been my lifelong passion and now I have all these beautiful guitars I've saved my entire life for that I can't use for more than maybe 2 or 3 min at a time. I'm pretty good at just picking up a new instrument and learning it fast and used to play my buddies bass all the time, it's def a ton easier on my hands and at least lets me get back into making music. I'm definitly going with a 5 string just so I have the option for extended range, but I'm glad I found your channel, tons of helpful content to binge!
I still have and use the old Squier 5 string precision with jazz pickups. It has standard 4 string spacing so the neck is near 6 string territory. One of the cheapest but best feeling and sounding basses I own.
I actually started on a Yamaha 5. I find i am more used to its closer string spacing. That is a double edged sword. I find the wider spacing great for slap. I prefer narrow for anything else. Of course there are pros and cons to both. I been into 4s a lot lately.
I like 4 string when I'm doing a lot of open E string action, especially for rock or metal it just feels better to pluck the E string without another string behind it, and it's more agile and just feels easier to play if I'm running around on stage. I like 5 string for funk, jazz, and general improv stuff where my bassline is gonna be unpredictable, and I might want to play a low note or an easier walking pattern up the fretboard. There are some styles of music such as Gospel or Death Metal that commonly require 5 string or extended range bass, but I don't really play those, so for me 4vs5 is always a preference decision. If you can only afford one bass and not sure what you want/need yet then get a 5 string.
I like 4, 5, 6 string bass and fretless too... They all sound different and it's a challenge to find the right tone and the right techniques to fit a song into... thanks.
At the moment I'm looking at getting a 5 string because I mostly play metal and can only afford either one or the other. I'm going with the 5 string mostly for the versatility it comes with
I agree, when switching between 4 and 5 strings the string spacing issue trips me up more than the extra string. For that reason I really try to avoid switching in the middle of sets, if possible
Great vid I play a lot worship nowadays Like to use the 5th string to add dynamics/drive down low But if the set list doesn’t call for that, you know I’ma bring my 4. Or crazy slap lines also I’m on the 4 I have a 6, but it rarely gets picked anymore
Me too! I have 2 songs in Eb tomorrow in our worship set. For me that is much easier to play with a 5 string and you can use a true low Eb root note. With other songs in the set using standard keys you don't need to switch basses or tunings. Plus what bass player doesn't enjoy dropping some low D, C, or B-bombs from time to time!! Fours do have their place too.
I'm a 4 string guy and always will be. I will never finish learning what I can do with it and have yet to feel the need for more strings personally in 37+ years of playing. That said, bass players that can rock the shit out of 5 and 6 string basses are cool. Nothing but admiration for the expanded tool kit and their mastery of it. If a project needs it, a project needs it.
I tried a Dingwall Ng5 at the weekend. Granted my noob fingers took a while to get comfortable but after 20 minutes it was like ‘ok more muting needed’ and I just focused on that more. Sound wise I have no clue if it’s better than a squire p-bass with all the pedals and preamps you can buy with the price difference. But I sincerely don’t care. Comfort wise it was the best I out my hands on and it’s the only bass I would gladly spend the rest of my days playing just root notes. 😅
Cool video. I don’t think you have to chose one or the other, I know I simply can’t. I tried to tell myself that I was going to play 5 string and that was that, but it’s not that simple. I still love playing 4’s. I’m hoping to buy a new bass soon, and as of right now I’m about 90% sure it will be 4 string. Makes it highly likely that the one after that will be 5😂
My first year of playing bass was on a 4 string, then i got a 5 string. i play all styles of metal and a little jazz, so 5 and 6 String is what i need... Since im.just a semi pro and still have a job that makes my money, i only play music i like...
Nice analysis Jayme! One other issue worth mentioning is that most 5 strings have a tighter string spacing than a standard 4 string. I know you can get a five with standard 19 mm Fender spacing but that makes the neck super wide and too hard to play IMO. Some people like the tighter 16-18mm spacing of most fivers though. Also I've found in playing worship music many of the keys are set by the singers. For example, I have 2 songs in Eb tomorrow in our set. For me that is much easier to play with a 5 string and you can use a true low Eb root note. With other songs in the set using standard keys you don't need to switch basses or tunings. As you clearly communicated, both 4 and 5 strings have their own place and time.
If you’re a gigging player that plays with a lot of different artists and everything from weddings to events where a lot of cover songs are played you’re better off with a 5er because it’s easier to transpose on the spot. If you play some of the common event/wedding songs with a couple of different singers and bands your’re probably playing it from 3-5 different key signatures. It can be done on a 4 string however it’s a lot easier to do on a 5er especially if your a last minute replacement because to transpose you only need to move your hand and all of your fingering stays the same.
I play 5 and 6 string. Started with a standard 4 string. But 5-6 are my comfort zone. For my personal purposes, I dont need any more than that. Maybe one day I’ll get a 7 or 8 string, but highly unlikely. 5’s are my main drivers, used to be 6’s, but I found myself not using the high C as much as I thought I would. lol Currently I stick with my SR605E. I’ll probably get a BTB in a couple of years just to have one in the collection.
Cool video thanks. 5 string is good for those frustrated players who want to be lead guitarists and want people to hear them 😄. Or if you're a Peter Hook fan like me, then occasionally try 6-string. But really the bass is meant to play as a 4 string. PS: One of my fav parts of this video is the "Young Frankenstein" movie playing in the background 👍
Wow, You have that Metal style so together. I have been a bassist for a long time and I'm pretty versatile but I have no clue how to play in that style. I guess I missed out on something. Do you actually own all the basses you play? And do you have a favorite bass?
Short scales rock and are the easiest for me to play! I know they do make some short scale five strings but I have never played one. Most think the B string would suffer too much with a 30" scale but some would disagree. Hey Jayme, maybe tackle that issue?
I feel like the changing instruments/retuning aspect is more relevant than how it was presented. If you’re in a genre where you don’t go that low except maybe once in a set sure, but most modern genres (not just heavy ones either) kinda need you to do that a lot, at least in my experience. The options of change the part or use an octave pedal are pretty major changes to the sound of the band that might not transfer well, and switching basses/retuning kinda prevents you from being a part of transitions in between songs and at worst creates the incredibly awkward “hold on guys don’t start yet I’m still tuning” stage moments. As a working bass player 5s just avoid problems imo, especially if you get a passive switch one for more genre versatility. Still have a 4 (with hipshot detuner 😈)for gigs where it’s older music because I don’t need the B and that way I can keep flatwounds on there permanently and not switch between flats and rounds all the time on my 5
You forget one option: a BEAD string bass. This has all the advantages of both the four string ánd the five string. Be honest - when do you ever use the five highest notes of the G-string? No downtuning; I simply use a capo. With it I even can turn it back to standard EADG tuning. The only issue is that the fat B-string is tougher to handle. But it's doable, even for a beginner like me.
Im a beginner. I was dead set on buying a 5 string bb735a from yamaha. Now after watching a couple of vids ive decided to go for a 4 string. It sounds like youre getting less (because 5 vs 4), but if you count the overall playability and comfort you are actually getting more out of a 4 string. And there's nothing better than feeling confidence and joy while youre on the learning stage to stay motivated and learn the instrument. I feel like the 5 string is for more advanced users, while for someone like me it would be a complete nerve-wracking experience. Thank you for the vid
Coincidence. I just ordered a 734A tonight here. I was considering the 735A to have a unique, 5er in my line up… but I’ve tried to own fivers in the past and ended up selling them, not getting anywhere with them. Just hard to get my brain to go there and I find those big low notes sound unnatural anyway. 4 strings are fine for the music I play - just a local hero/weekend warrior player because its good for the soul.
There are very few good-sounding five strings in my opinion, and they have to be active. Personally, my five string Spector ns Pulse 2 is the most versatile instrument I've ever played. I still keep a short scale 4 string around if I want a thumpier sound though.
Nice studio... There has never been a better time for anyone that is interested in playing an instrument or creating their own music... Just grab that bass and let the music do the talking.
In theory a 5 string should just be a 4 string with more options but I find that I play and think about them differently. A 5 string basically draws my attention more. I'm not only playing a part, I'm kinda thinking about the instrument too. It's because playing a 5 string is a conscious choice and that intentionality makes it veer into nerd town where the gear is important in its own right. A 4 string is just like who cares what this thing is let's rock and roll.
As far as muting, get a fret wrap and be done There are real limitations on a 4 that don’t exist on a 5. All the negatives you listed about the 5 are all subjective and really just related to needing more practice as you correctly referenced multiple times.
It's easier to get a good quality 4-string than a 5-string. Even an expensive 5-string, the B-string is a hit or miss. Yeah, I've tried 5-strings of Fender, it's trash.
I mean, maybe 30 years ago. In the modern era you gotta be a little more versatile. Not saying that 4 string p doesn’t still fit in a lot of situations, but you should be thinking about serving the music, not serving your preconceptions about what bass “should be”
Every 5 string bass has a 4 string right there in it.
So does every 6 string,,but the other 2 , are what you end up trying to keep quiet..lol. 😒
Good point though..lol
And every 7 string guitar, has a 6 string guitar
One extra string 5 extra notes.
Well i own three 4 string bass guitars and i own 2 five string bass guitars and i own a 6 string bass guitar .. it depends on what music you are playing 😊
Tbh I was just here to Jayme play like a badass on any instrument and I was not disappointed.
Clean, feel, groove, great lines, absolute and sound good on every instrument and genre; you’re a constant inspiration and aspiration 🤘
Feel you. I am predominantly a 6-string player so that is a question I kind of just do not deal with 9/10 times :D
We have all seen a lot. This is the best video on the subject. Way to go Jayme!
Try a 24 frets 4 string strung BEAD. It gives you every note on a regular 20 fret 5'er minus that one highest G20.
You actually might be onto something
I started learning on a friend’s 5 string as that’s all I had access to. 20 years later and I rarely play 5s now as there’s just no need for the extra string for 98% of what I play and write.
Dude, giving musical examples for everything that you are saying is fantastic!! The music responds to your words and wonderfully illustrates your technical and a very wide variety of music concepts, great job!
I found the transition from 4 to 5 string easier than I expected but it does take time to fully integrate the 5th string
I once tried a 6 string (never again) lol 5 is perfect
what about a 12 string bass(tripled strings)
6 sitting down is fine
And actually quite like the high C for making melodic lines
But when you play standing up? 6 strings is just so fkinntoo heavy
I've made myself dependent on 5-strings, and I really struggle with jumping back to 4-strings these days. My hands are just so used to the layout of a fiver, even if I don't play the B string all that much
You are an incredible musician. It's so uncommon to find someone that can play these different genres convincingly, and also have an incredible array of techniques absolutely dialed in.
man this is the best 4 vs 5 strings comparison video ever. this guy is amazing he really able to play any genres perfectly!
I'm gonna be picking up my first bass in a week or so, I've been playing guitar for 25 years but have been dealing with medical issues since I was born which led to me developing bad bone disease and that makes it incredibly hard to play guitar and form chords anymore. Music has always been my lifelong passion and now I have all these beautiful guitars I've saved my entire life for that I can't use for more than maybe 2 or 3 min at a time. I'm pretty good at just picking up a new instrument and learning it fast and used to play my buddies bass all the time, it's def a ton easier on my hands and at least lets me get back into making music. I'm definitly going with a 5 string just so I have the option for extended range, but I'm glad I found your channel, tons of helpful content to binge!
I still have and use the old Squier 5 string precision with jazz pickups. It has standard 4 string spacing so the neck is near 6 string territory. One of the cheapest but best feeling and sounding basses I own.
I actually started on a Yamaha 5.
I find i am more used to its closer string spacing.
That is a double edged sword. I find the wider spacing great for slap. I prefer narrow for anything else.
Of course there are pros and cons to both. I been into 4s a lot lately.
I like 4 string when I'm doing a lot of open E string action, especially for rock or metal it just feels better to pluck the E string without another string behind it, and it's more agile and just feels easier to play if I'm running around on stage. I like 5 string for funk, jazz, and general improv stuff where my bassline is gonna be unpredictable, and I might want to play a low note or an easier walking pattern up the fretboard. There are some styles of music such as Gospel or Death Metal that commonly require 5 string or extended range bass, but I don't really play those, so for me 4vs5 is always a preference decision. If you can only afford one bass and not sure what you want/need yet then get a 5 string.
I like 4, 5, 6 string bass and fretless too...
They all sound different and it's a challenge to find the right tone and the right techniques to fit a song into... thanks.
Please use the stingray5 at your own risk. It will cause you some groove or funky bass line
At the moment I'm looking at getting a 5 string because I mostly play metal and can only afford either one or the other. I'm going with the 5 string mostly for the versatility it comes with
0:25 sick tone 🤯
Is there a review of that bass??
I use a 5 right now as ironically it's my lightest bass. Also adapting to 16.5mm spacing which is another consideration in the topic
I agree, when switching between 4 and 5 strings the string spacing issue trips me up more than the extra string. For that reason I really try to avoid switching in the middle of sets, if possible
Great vid
I play a lot worship nowadays
Like to use the 5th string to add dynamics/drive down low
But if the set list doesn’t call for that, you know I’ma bring my 4. Or crazy slap lines also I’m on the 4
I have a 6, but it rarely gets picked anymore
Me too! I have 2 songs in Eb tomorrow in our worship set. For me that is much easier to play with a 5 string and you can use a true low Eb root note. With other songs in the set using standard keys you don't need to switch basses or tunings. Plus what bass player doesn't enjoy dropping some low D, C, or B-bombs from time to time!! Fours do have their place too.
@@markblackstad8705 my funk soul brotha!! Bless that Bass!
I'm a 4 string guy and always will be. I will never finish learning what I can do with it and have yet to feel the need for more strings personally in 37+ years of playing.
That said, bass players that can rock the shit out of 5 and 6 string basses are cool. Nothing but admiration for the expanded tool kit and their mastery of it. If a project needs it, a project needs it.
3:20 nice sound
I tried a Dingwall Ng5 at the weekend. Granted my noob fingers took a while to get comfortable but after 20 minutes it was like ‘ok more muting needed’ and I just focused on that more.
Sound wise I have no clue if it’s better than a squire p-bass with all the pedals and preamps you can buy with the price difference. But I sincerely don’t care.
Comfort wise it was the best I out my hands on and it’s the only bass I would gladly spend the rest of my days playing just root notes.
😅
Jayme, you're an extremely verstile bass player as you play all genres with finesse ... much respect bro!
4 string in E standard primarily for what I like to play and how I like to play.
But when/if needed, I have a 5 ready to go for anything lower.
Cool video. I don’t think you have to chose one or the other, I know I simply can’t. I tried to tell myself that I was going to play 5 string and that was that, but it’s not that simple. I still love playing 4’s. I’m hoping to buy a new bass soon, and as of right now I’m about 90% sure it will be 4 string. Makes it highly likely that the one after that will be 5😂
My first year of playing bass was on a 4 string, then i got a 5 string. i play all styles of metal and a little jazz, so 5 and 6 String is what i need... Since im.just a semi pro and still have a job that makes my money, i only play music i like...
Nice analysis Jayme! One other issue worth mentioning is that most 5 strings have a tighter string spacing than a standard 4 string. I know you can get a five with standard 19 mm Fender spacing but that makes the neck super wide and too hard to play IMO. Some people like the tighter 16-18mm spacing of most fivers though. Also I've found in playing worship music many of the keys are set by the singers. For example, I have 2 songs in Eb tomorrow in our set. For me that is much easier to play with a 5 string and you can use a true low Eb root note. With other songs in the set using standard keys you don't need to switch basses or tunings. As you clearly communicated, both 4 and 5 strings have their own place and time.
4:45 You were just showing up Phil X and his "instant Drop D" move 😉
If you’re a gigging player that plays with a lot of different artists and everything from weddings to events where a lot of cover songs are played you’re better off with a 5er because it’s easier to transpose on the spot. If you play some of the common event/wedding songs with a couple of different singers and bands your’re probably playing it from 3-5 different key signatures. It can be done on a 4 string however it’s a lot easier to do on a 5er especially if your a last minute replacement because to transpose you only need to move your hand and all of your fingering stays the same.
I want to start on a 5 string bass. I know it will be hard , I'm very much aware. It's jus that I wanna play Metal and I want to go low...
Dude same
3:53 brave man banging a Gibson headstock like that 🤘
I play 5 and 6 string. Started with a standard 4 string. But 5-6 are my comfort zone.
For my personal purposes, I dont need any more than that. Maybe one day I’ll get a 7 or 8 string, but highly unlikely. 5’s are my main drivers, used to be 6’s, but I found myself not using the high C as much as I thought I would. lol
Currently I stick with my SR605E. I’ll probably get a BTB in a couple of years just to have one in the collection.
Informative and well put together video 😁
Cool video thanks. 5 string is good for those frustrated players who want to be lead guitarists and want people to hear them 😄. Or if you're a Peter Hook fan like me, then occasionally try 6-string. But really the bass is meant to play as a 4 string. PS: One of my fav parts of this video is the "Young Frankenstein" movie playing in the background 👍
I play a 4 and half string --- it's a great compromise
Wow, You have that Metal style so together. I have been a bassist for a long time and I'm pretty versatile but I have no clue how to play in that style. I guess I missed out on something. Do you actually own all the basses you play? And do you have a favorite bass?
Hi - was wondering what is the song at 4:53 and 5:15? sounds great. Thanks to anyone that knows! Great video
I choose 5 er's mostly because the board is wider and it's very comfortable for my big hands, that's all. I do use the B string , but not too much.
I have both, but use my 4-string basses much more. Short scale has been my mainstay lately.
Short scales rock and are the easiest for me to play! I know they do make some short scale five strings but I have never played one. Most think the B string would suffer too much with a 30" scale but some would disagree. Hey Jayme, maybe tackle that issue?
I feel like the changing instruments/retuning aspect is more relevant than how it was presented. If you’re in a genre where you don’t go that low except maybe once in a set sure, but most modern genres (not just heavy ones either) kinda need you to do that a lot, at least in my experience. The options of change the part or use an octave pedal are pretty major changes to the sound of the band that might not transfer well, and switching basses/retuning kinda prevents you from being a part of transitions in between songs and at worst creates the incredibly awkward “hold on guys don’t start yet I’m still tuning” stage moments. As a working bass player 5s just avoid problems imo, especially if you get a passive switch one for more genre versatility. Still have a 4 (with hipshot detuner 😈)for gigs where it’s older music because I don’t need the B and that way I can keep flatwounds on there permanently and not switch between flats and rounds all the time on my 5
Good GOD i want that aqua sparkle bongo SOOOOO BAD. that shit is so over the top
You forget one option: a BEAD string bass. This has all the advantages of both the four string ánd the five string. Be honest - when do you ever use the five highest notes of the G-string? No downtuning; I simply use a capo. With it I even can turn it back to standard EADG tuning.
The only issue is that the fat B-string is tougher to handle. But it's doable, even for a beginner like me.
Great video. I’m 5 all the time but lots of food for thought for 4, for certain situations
Im a beginner. I was dead set on buying a 5 string bb735a from yamaha. Now after watching a couple of vids ive decided to go for a 4 string. It sounds like youre getting less (because 5 vs 4), but if you count the overall playability and comfort you are actually getting more out of a 4 string. And there's nothing better than feeling confidence and joy while youre on the learning stage to stay motivated and learn the instrument. I feel like the 5 string is for more advanced users, while for someone like me it would be a complete nerve-wracking experience. Thank you for the vid
You have good taste! I’ve been looking at picking up one of those next. How are you liking it? Which finish did you get it in?
Coincidence. I just ordered a 734A tonight here. I was considering the 735A to have a unique, 5er in my line up… but I’ve tried to own fivers in the past and ended up selling them, not getting anywhere with them. Just hard to get my brain to go there and I find those big low notes sound unnatural anyway. 4 strings are fine for the music I play - just a local hero/weekend warrior player because its good for the soul.
I'm thinking about getting a 4 string with a hipshot drop tuner
What was that song u played at the beginning with the Orange bass?!
5 String, cause iam playing in a big band settings mostly in Eb/F/Ab
Without pedals 5 strings active has everything... With pedals 4 strings and 24 frets. Both fits perfect in all kind of music
Both ❤
Is that some Hoods on Peregrine by Thrice I hear at 3:21 ?
I couldn't find it in the playlist, maybe I missed it, but I loved the song at 1:07 in the video, anyone know it?
Please this song is so good and I can’t get it out of my head
3 5 strings LOW E-G with 170 gauge , one low A-C 130 string , one HI-C bass so EADGC1 4 string p with flats
I’ve only ever played a 6 string. I love it.
There are very few good-sounding five strings in my opinion, and they have to be active.
Personally, my five string Spector ns Pulse 2 is the most versatile instrument I've ever played. I still keep a short scale 4 string around if I want a thumpier sound though.
Blue guitar bro❤
You sound just like Shesez, the Boundry Break guy for videos games!
How about having a 4 string in a B-E-A-G tuning ?
Nice studio...
There has never been a better time for anyone that is interested in playing an instrument or creating their own music...
Just grab that bass and let the music do the talking.
my reasoning for getting a 5 string was 5 strings are cool
In theory a 5 string should just be a 4 string with more options but I find that I play and think about them differently. A 5 string basically draws my attention more. I'm not only playing a part, I'm kinda thinking about the instrument too. It's because playing a 5 string is a conscious choice and that intentionality makes it veer into nerd town where the gear is important in its own right. A 4 string is just like who cares what this thing is let's rock and roll.
I have had no use for a 4-string since picking up a 5-string 😅
Everyone has his or her own opinion! So stop trying to make up everyone’s mind to match yours!👍
Not every 4 strings are lighter really depends on the wood. For me 6 strings bass is what i need
Omg I thought I was the only one that sucks with a pick!!!
As far as muting, get a fret wrap and be done
There are real limitations on a 4 that don’t exist on a 5.
All the negatives you listed about the 5 are all subjective and really just related to needing more practice as you correctly referenced multiple times.
5 strings rules for covers gigs. No changing instruments or tunings.
5 is more chunky 🎉
5 string basses are just for attention. Look at me, I’m almost a guitar player. 😂
It's easier to get a good quality 4-string than a 5-string. Even an expensive 5-string, the B-string is a hit or miss. Yeah, I've tried 5-strings of Fender, it's trash.
2 string basses if you are an honest person :p
I'm lazy, so I only play 5 strings.
JAYME YOU LOOK LIKE JUSTIN HARTLEY
You can play 4 strings on a 5 string bass, but you can't play 5 strings on a 4 string bass. I have settled on 5 string because it is more flexible.
Why go 5, when you can go 6! 😳
4-string! That’s all you need.
How many Hits were recorded with a simple Fender P-Bass?
I mean, maybe 30 years ago. In the modern era you gotta be a little more versatile. Not saying that 4 string p doesn’t still fit in a lot of situations, but you should be thinking about serving the music, not serving your preconceptions about what bass “should be”
Bingo!
You need more time on a 5 :)
6 String haha
Neither. 6 strings win.
why so much distortion? sounds like crap.....
#65_Hype_dontWasteYourXxx_😒
The Big B string is like a gun it’s better to have it and not need it rather than need it and not have it😜